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Instructor Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CAE, Inc.

Praetor Instructor Pilot

Dallas, TX · On-site

CAE Instructor Pilots - All for the pursuit of aviation excellence. As an Instructor Pilot at CAE, you play a critical role in developing pilot confidence and skill through high-quality simulator and ...

Caeus

Praetor Instructor Pilot

Dallas, TX · On-site

CAE Instructor Pilots - All for the pursuit of aviation excellence. As an Instructor Pilot at CAE, you play a critical role in developing pilot confidence and skill through highquality simulator and ...

DRG

F-35 CONTRACT INSTRUCTOR PILOT

Lemoore, CA · On-site

$75 - $90/hr

Contract Instructor will facilitate pilot training in the F-35 Full Mission Simulator using the Instructor Operating Station (IOS) and will be a subject matter expert (SME) on various aircraft ...

AEVEX

Instructor Pilot 4

Tampa, FL · On-site

Previous experience as a certified flight instructor (CFI), instructor pilot, or military flight instructor is highly desirable. * Experience with the U.S. Department of State (DoS), U.S. Department ...

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Instructor Pilot information

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$39.5K

$103K

$171.5K

How much do instructor pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for instructor pilot in the United States is $103,038.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Instructor Pilot vs Flight Instructor?

AspectInstructor PilotFlight Instructor
CertificationsCommercial Pilot Certificate, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) often requiredCertified Flight Instructor (CFI) required
Work EnvironmentMilitary, corporate, or government aircraft trainingFlight schools, general aviation
Employer & IndustryAirlines, military, government agenciesFlight training schools, private aviation

Instructor Pilot and Flight Instructor both require CFI certification, but Instructor Pilots often operate in military or corporate settings, focusing on advanced training. Flight Instructors typically work in civilian flight schools, training new pilots. While their roles overlap in training and certification, Instructor Pilots usually handle more complex aircraft and scenarios, whereas Flight Instructors focus on foundational pilot training.

How do you become a pilot instructor?

To become a pilot instructor, you must first obtain a private pilot license and then accumulate additional flight hours to qualify for an instructor certification, such as the Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) rating. After earning the CFI, you can teach student pilots and gain experience, often requiring passing written and practical exams administered by aviation authorities.

What Does a Pilot Instructor Do?

Pilot Instructors teach students how to fly so that they can obtain their pilot’s licenses. This position takes patience, precision, a sense of detail, and cool thinking under pressure. You will teach your student each and every step involved in flight. This often begins with classroom instruction and may later involve such actions as filing a flight plan, completing a pre-flight checklist, radio communication with ground personnel, and all details of takeoff, navigation, and landing. Eventually, you will guide your students through test flights. You will then file reports to your leadership on the progress of your students and help decide who is qualified to obtain their pilot’s licenses.

What are Instructor Pilots?

Instructor Pilots are highly trained and experienced pilots who are responsible for teaching student pilots how to operate aircraft safely and effectively. They provide both ground and flight instruction, evaluate student performance, and ensure adherence to aviation regulations. Instructor Pilots may work in flight schools, military settings, or commercial training programs, and are essential for developing the next generation of competent aviators. Their role includes demonstrating maneuvers, providing feedback, and preparing students for exams and certifications.

How much do flying instructors get paid?

Flying instructors typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of flying school. Pay may also include hourly rates for flight hours and additional benefits such as training and certification support.

How much can you make as a pilot instructor?

Pilot instructors typically earn between $30,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of flying school or airline. Experienced instructors with advanced certifications and additional flight hours can earn higher salaries, especially if they work for major airlines or specialized training programs.

Is there a demand for flight instructors?

The demand for flight instructors remains steady due to ongoing pilot training needs and pilot shortages in the aviation industry. Flight instructors with certified flight instructor (CFI) ratings and strong teaching skills are typically in higher demand, especially in regions with expanding flight schools or increased pilot certification requirements.

What are some common challenges Instructor Pilots face when training new pilots, and how can they be addressed?

Instructor Pilots often encounter challenges such as varying learning speeds among students, managing cockpit safety during training flights, and providing constructive feedback under pressure. To address these, it's important to tailor teaching methods to individual student needs, maintain clear communication and situational awareness at all times, and foster a supportive learning environment. Regular collaboration with other instructors and ongoing professional development also help Instructor Pilots stay updated on best practices and regulatory changes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Instructor Pilot, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Instructor Pilot, you need advanced piloting skills, a commercial or airline transport pilot certificate, and a certified flight instructor (CFI) rating. Familiarity with flight simulators, aircraft-specific avionics, and training management systems is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to give constructive feedback are vital soft skills for effectively teaching and mentoring student pilots. These skills ensure safe flight operations, effective knowledge transfer, and the development of competent new pilots.
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Instructor Pilot jobs near you
Infographic showing various Instructor Pilot job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 57% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,038 per year, or $49.5 per hour.
Contract Instructor Pilot / F-35 / Part Time / Lemoore, CA

Contract Instructor Pilot / F-35 / Part Time / Lemoore, CA

Lockheed Martin

Lemoore, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 389 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 61 rated aerospace companies

Job description

WHO WE ARE
Lockheed Martin is a global leader in aerospace, defense, and technology solutions, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation and shaping the future of the industry. With a rich legacy of excellence and a commitment to delivering advanced capabilities to our customers, we are proud to be at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and engineering.
WHAT WE'RE DOING
At Lockheed Martin, we're revolutionizing the aerospace and defense sector through groundbreaking technology, advanced manufacturing processes, and a world-class team of professionals. Our mission-driven approach and unwavering dedication to excellence ensure that we continue to deliver superior products and solutions to our customers around the world.
THE WORK
We are seeking an experienced fighter pilot to serve as a Part Time Pilot Instructor located at NAS Lemoore.
Position will provide F-35 Instructor Pilot and Subject Matter Expert (SME) instruction, academic training utilizing Electronic Mediated Lecture (EML) and/or Interactive Courseware (ICW) and instruct flight procedures in the Pilot Training Devices executing to the approved pilot training syllabus. The successful candidate will work closely with other members of the Lockheed Martin training team at NAS Lemoore to fulfill F-35 training objectives. The successful candidate will implement and support Lockheed Martin initiatives, programs, and policies, as directed. The candidate must maintain a Secret level security clearance and Special Access Program (SAP) access. An appropriate degree from an accredited college, or equivalent experience/combined education, with professional experience and specialized training commensurate with the assignment, is required.
The Contract Instructor Pilot will provide instruction using the Full Mission Simulators (FMS) or Mission Rehearsal Trainer (MRT). The instructor will operate Instructor Operating Stations (IOS) and will be a SME for all pilot training courseware updates. The Contract Instructor Pilot will assist in the preparation of schedules, maintain training records, and ensure that course standards, training requirements, and objectives are met by each student. The Contract Instructor Pilot will evaluate and monitor students' performance. This position is typically represented by an experienced pilot.
WHO YOU ARE
You are a dynamic and results-oriented professional with a passion for driving operational excellence and optimizing production processes. You thrive in a fast-paced environment and are adept at managing complex projects while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. Your strong analytical skills, coupled with your ability to communicate effectively and collaborate across departments, make you an invaluable asset to our team.
WHY JOIN US
Opportunity for Impact: Join a team that is at the forefront of innovation in the aerospace and defense industry and make a significant impact on the success of our organization.
Professional Development: Take advantage of unparalleled opportunities for growth and advancement within Lockheed Martin, with access to world-class training and development programs.
Collaborative Culture: Work alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry who share your passion for excellence and who are committed to supporting each other's success.
Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, as well as competitive salary offerings.
Cutting-Edge Technology: Be part of a dynamic and forward-thinking work environment where you will have the opportunity to work with the latest technology and contribute to groundbreaking projects that are shaping the future of aerospace and defense.
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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912

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